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Matthew Pouliot

Strike Zone

Top 150 Free Agents

This year's annual free agents column has expanded to a top 150, though I'm writing up just the top 55 (it was going to be 50, but I couldn't help myself). The rest are presented in a list. Not included are players whose contract options are sure to be exercised.

Players are ranked based not on how I personally rate them, but instead on how I expect the teams to view them. Basically, I go by whom I think will get the biggest contracts (or at least would if they shopped themselves around. Yes, I'm looking at you, Hiroki), using my own secret and closely guarded algorithm for contracts of differing lengths (in Matt's head, a one-year, $15 million deal would be about equal to a two-year, $26 million deal, but not as good as a three-year, $36 million deal).

All ages are as of April 1, 2014.

1. Robinson Cano (2B Yankees - Age 31): Cano's status as the winter's top free agent is undisputed, but it remains to be seen who will compete with the Yankees for his services. The Dodgers were the obvious choice, but they've added Cuban defector Alexander Guerrero for second and still have to sign Clayton Kershaw to a long-term deal. Seattle perhaps? It'd be nice to see the Orioles flex some muscle and make a big bid, but it's not their style. Maybe a usual suspect like the Tigers or Rangers could make some noise. Cano will probably get $200 million regardless, but it's going to take a mystery team or two to get him up to $250 million.

2013 stats: .314/.383/.516, 27 HR, 81 R, 107 RBI, 7 SB in 605 AB

2. Jacoby Ellsbury (OF Red Sox - Age 30): After an MVP-type 2011 and an injured and unproductive 2012, Ellsbury basically settled right back in at his career numbers last season. The 32-homer outburst from 2011 looks like it might go down as a Brady Anderson-like outlier, but Ellsbury is still plenty valuable even without the power. Also, he's entering free agency at a great time, with the Rangers, Mariners and Mets in definite need of leadoff hitters. Even teams like the Yankees, Tigers, Nationals and Phillies can't be ruled out. The Red Sox would love to have him back, too, but someone is going to give him Carl Crawford money (seven years, $142 million) and Boston isn't likely to match.

2013 stats: .298/.355/.426, 9 HR, 92 R, 53 RBI, 52 SB in 577 AB

x. Masahiro Tanaka (RHP Japan - Age 25): Tanaka isn't a free agent, but if he were, he'd be No. 3 on the list. Expectations are that he'll be posted this month, though MLB and the NPB are currently working on coming to terms on a new posting agreement. My guess is that the team that signs Tanaka will end up making a commitment that rivals the one Ellsbury will get. However, Tanaka himself will probably end up with just about half that money, with the rest going to his club in Japan, the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles. He should be valued as a $20 million-per-year pitcher, though. The Yankees, Dodgers and Rangers are all expected to be very much involved.

2013 stats: 24-0, 1.27 ERA, 183/32 K/BB in 212 IP

3. Shin-Soo Choo (OF Reds - Age 31): Choo had almost 70 points of OBP on Ellsbury last season, but since he shouldn't be viewed as a center fielder going forward, he's probably not in for quite as big of a contract. That's not say he'll be hurting. The Reds should make an effort to bring him back, the Rangers, Mets and Mariners are among the teams that could use his leadoff skills and perhaps the Red Sox would consider him for left if Ellsbury departs. He seems destined for a nine-figure deal that would top the five-year, $90 million extension Hunter Pence agreed to with the Giants.

2013 stats: .285/.423/.462, 21 HR, 107 R, 54 RBI, 20 SB in 569 AB

4. Matt Garza (RHP Rangers - Age 30): Garza didn't fare particularly well in his return to the American League, going 4-5 with a 4.38 ERA in his 13 starts after being traded from the Cubs to the Rangers. There are also lingering doubts about his arm after he missed the second half of 2012 with a stress reaction in his elbow. Still, he has the best combination of track record and relative youth of any of the free agent starters, which should earn him a five- or six-year deal. It also doesn't hurt that he's the one elite free agent who won't cost a draft pick; because he was traded at midseason, the Rangers can't get compensation for losing him. He'd seem to be a lock to get at least $80 million this winter, and $100 million may not be out of reach.

2013 stats: 10-6, 3.82 ERA, 136/42 K/BB in 155 1/3 IP

5. Ervin Santana (RHP Royals - Age 31): The Angels gave Santana away to the Royals rather than pay him $13 million in 2013. He'll be much more costly this time around after finishing with a career-best 3.24 ERA in 211 innings. That he does give up a lot of homers will likely scare away some teams that play in smaller ballparks, but it won't stop him from getting about $18 million per year. Despite the old concerns about his shoulder, he's made 30 starts in four straight seasons now. He's made at least 23 in all eight of his seasons in the big leagues.

2013 stats: 9-10, 3.24 ERA, 161/51 K/BB in 211 IP

6. Ubaldo Jimenez (RHP Indians - Age 29): No free agent did more to enhance his stock down the stretch than did Jimenez. The Indians won each of his last six starts, with Jimenez allowing just six runs -- five earned -- in 41 1/3 innings during the span. He fanned at least 10 in four of his last eight starts, and he finished the second half with a 1.82 ERA and a 100/27 K/BB ratio in 84 innings. Of course, all of this comes after a 2012 season in which he was one of the league's worst starters, finishing with a 5.40 ERA and a 1.61 WHIP. Jimenez will certainly be a risky signing, but he offers more upside than any other free agent starter in his age group.

2013 stats: 13-9, 3.30 ERA, 194/80 K/BB in 182 2/3 IP

7. Brian McCann (C Braves - Age 30): Throw out the 2012 season in which McCann was limited by a shoulder injury and he's still trending downwards; his best seasons were 2006 and 2008 and, in the last six years, he's finished with OPSs of .896, .834, .828, .817, .698 and .797. It makes it easy to forget that he's actually the youngest of the top position player free agents here. But even if McCann doesn't have many more All-Star Games in his future, he's likely to remain a solid starting catcher for several more years. Universally respected, he's probably in line for $60 million for four years, if not something like $80 million for five. The Rangers and Yankees could be his top suitors.

2013 stats: .256/.336/.461, 20 HR, 43 R, 57 RBI, 0 SB in 356 AB

8. Curtis Granderson (OF Yankees - Age 33): After hitting 40 homers in both of the previous two seasons, Granderson picked the wrong winter to head into free agency for the first time. Of course, even those willing to overlook the injuries that ruined his 2013 should note that his 2012 was one of the weakest 40-homer campaigns ever (.319 OBP, 195 strikeouts, 26 of 43 homers coming at Yankee Stadium). He's also turning 33 in the spring. Perhaps he'll be adequate in center field for a couple of more years, but he might be more valuable in a corner. Ideally, he could be had on something like a three-year, $54 million contract. At least one team will probably go to four years, though.

2013 stats: .229/.317/.407, 7 HR, 31 R, 15 RBI, 8 SB in 214 AB

9. Carlos Beltran (OF Cardinals - Age 36): The Cardinals could scarcely have hoped that they'd get 296 games (plus 29 more in the postseason) from Beltran over the course of his two-year, $26 million contract. It will be interesting to see if he takes less to stay in St. Louis this time around with the Yankees, Rangers and Red Sox possibilities to come sniffing around. Two of his former teams, the Royals and Mets, could also make plays for him. Although his defense has gone downhill, he's worth $40 million for two years in this market.

2013 stats: .296/.339/.491, 24 HR, 79 R, 84 RBI, 2 SB in 554 AB

10. Hiroki Kuroda (RHP Yankees - Age 39): This is Kuroda's third straight year as a free agent after he left money on the table to sign with the Yankees the previous two offseasons. He hasn't lost anything on the mound, having finished with the same ERA and WHIP last season as he did in 2012, and he should be able to command the highest one-year salary of any pitcher in this year's free agent crop if he wants to shop himself around. However, he'll probably choose between those same two options he did last year: staying with the Yankees or returning to Japan.

2013 stats: 11-13, 3.31 ERA, 150/43 K/BB in 201 1/3 IP

This year's annual free agents column has expanded to a top 150, though I'm writing up just the top 55 (it was going to be 50, but I couldn't help myself). The rest are presented in a list. Not included are players whose contract options are sure to be exercised.

Players are ranked based not on how I personally rate them, but instead on how I expect the teams to view them. Basically, I go by whom I think will get the biggest contracts (or at least would if they shopped themselves around. Yes, I'm looking at you, Hiroki), using my own secret and closely guarded algorithm for contracts of differing lengths (in Matt's head, a one-year, $15 million deal would be about equal to a two-year, $26 million deal, but not as good as a three-year, $36 million deal).

All ages are as of April 1, 2014.

1. Robinson Cano (2B Yankees - Age 31): Cano's status as the winter's top free agent is undisputed, but it remains to be seen who will compete with the Yankees for his services. The Dodgers were the obvious choice, but they've added Cuban defector Alexander Guerrero for second and still have to sign Clayton Kershaw to a long-term deal. Seattle perhaps? It'd be nice to see the Orioles flex some muscle and make a big bid, but it's not their style. Maybe a usual suspect like the Tigers or Rangers could make some noise. Cano will probably get $200 million regardless, but it's going to take a mystery team or two to get him up to $250 million.

2013 stats: .314/.383/.516, 27 HR, 81 R, 107 RBI, 7 SB in 605 AB

2. Jacoby Ellsbury (OF Red Sox - Age 30): After an MVP-type 2011 and an injured and unproductive 2012, Ellsbury basically settled right back in at his career numbers last season. The 32-homer outburst from 2011 looks like it might go down as a Brady Anderson-like outlier, but Ellsbury is still plenty valuable even without the power. Also, he's entering free agency at a great time, with the Rangers, Mariners and Mets in definite need of leadoff hitters. Even teams like the Yankees, Tigers, Nationals and Phillies can't be ruled out. The Red Sox would love to have him back, too, but someone is going to give him Carl Crawford money (seven years, $142 million) and Boston isn't likely to match.

2013 stats: .298/.355/.426, 9 HR, 92 R, 53 RBI, 52 SB in 577 AB

x. Masahiro Tanaka (RHP Japan - Age 25): Tanaka isn't a free agent, but if he were, he'd be No. 3 on the list. Expectations are that he'll be posted this month, though MLB and the NPB are currently working on coming to terms on a new posting agreement. My guess is that the team that signs Tanaka will end up making a commitment that rivals the one Ellsbury will get. However, Tanaka himself will probably end up with just about half that money, with the rest going to his club in Japan, the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles. He should be valued as a $20 million-per-year pitcher, though. The Yankees, Dodgers and Rangers are all expected to be very much involved.

2013 stats: 24-0, 1.27 ERA, 183/32 K/BB in 212 IP

3. Shin-Soo Choo (OF Reds - Age 31): Choo had almost 70 points of OBP on Ellsbury last season, but since he shouldn't be viewed as a center fielder going forward, he's probably not in for quite as big of a contract. That's not say he'll be hurting. The Reds should make an effort to bring him back, the Rangers, Mets and Mariners are among the teams that could use his leadoff skills and perhaps the Red Sox would consider him for left if Ellsbury departs. He seems destined for a nine-figure deal that would top the five-year, $90 million extension Hunter Pence agreed to with the Giants.

2013 stats: .285/.423/.462, 21 HR, 107 R, 54 RBI, 20 SB in 569 AB

4. Matt Garza (RHP Rangers - Age 30): Garza didn't fare particularly well in his return to the American League, going 4-5 with a 4.38 ERA in his 13 starts after being traded from the Cubs to the Rangers. There are also lingering doubts about his arm after he missed the second half of 2012 with a stress reaction in his elbow. Still, he has the best combination of track record and relative youth of any of the free agent starters, which should earn him a five- or six-year deal. It also doesn't hurt that he's the one elite free agent who won't cost a draft pick; because he was traded at midseason, the Rangers can't get compensation for losing him. He'd seem to be a lock to get at least $80 million this winter, and $100 million may not be out of reach.

2013 stats: 10-6, 3.82 ERA, 136/42 K/BB in 155 1/3 IP

5. Ervin Santana (RHP Royals - Age 31): The Angels gave Santana away to the Royals rather than pay him $13 million in 2013. He'll be much more costly this time around after finishing with a career-best 3.24 ERA in 211 innings. That he does give up a lot of homers will likely scare away some teams that play in smaller ballparks, but it won't stop him from getting about $18 million per year. Despite the old concerns about his shoulder, he's made 30 starts in four straight seasons now. He's made at least 23 in all eight of his seasons in the big leagues.

2013 stats: 9-10, 3.24 ERA, 161/51 K/BB in 211 IP

6. Ubaldo Jimenez (RHP Indians - Age 29): No free agent did more to enhance his stock down the stretch than did Jimenez. The Indians won each of his last six starts, with Jimenez allowing just six runs -- five earned -- in 41 1/3 innings during the span. He fanned at least 10 in four of his last eight starts, and he finished the second half with a 1.82 ERA and a 100/27 K/BB ratio in 84 innings. Of course, all of this comes after a 2012 season in which he was one of the league's worst starters, finishing with a 5.40 ERA and a 1.61 WHIP. Jimenez will certainly be a risky signing, but he offers more upside than any other free agent starter in his age group.

2013 stats: 13-9, 3.30 ERA, 194/80 K/BB in 182 2/3 IP

7. Brian McCann (C Braves - Age 30): Throw out the 2012 season in which McCann was limited by a shoulder injury and he's still trending downwards; his best seasons were 2006 and 2008 and, in the last six years, he's finished with OPSs of .896, .834, .828, .817, .698 and .797. It makes it easy to forget that he's actually the youngest of the top position player free agents here. But even if McCann doesn't have many more All-Star Games in his future, he's likely to remain a solid starting catcher for several more years. Universally respected, he's probably in line for $60 million for four years, if not something like $80 million for five. The Rangers and Yankees could be his top suitors.

2013 stats: .256/.336/.461, 20 HR, 43 R, 57 RBI, 0 SB in 356 AB

8. Curtis Granderson (OF Yankees - Age 33): After hitting 40 homers in both of the previous two seasons, Granderson picked the wrong winter to head into free agency for the first time. Of course, even those willing to overlook the injuries that ruined his 2013 should note that his 2012 was one of the weakest 40-homer campaigns ever (.319 OBP, 195 strikeouts, 26 of 43 homers coming at Yankee Stadium). He's also turning 33 in the spring. Perhaps he'll be adequate in center field for a couple of more years, but he might be more valuable in a corner. Ideally, he could be had on something like a three-year, $54 million contract. At least one team will probably go to four years, though.

2013 stats: .229/.317/.407, 7 HR, 31 R, 15 RBI, 8 SB in 214 AB

9. Carlos Beltran (OF Cardinals - Age 36): The Cardinals could scarcely have hoped that they'd get 296 games (plus 29 more in the postseason) from Beltran over the course of his two-year, $26 million contract. It will be interesting to see if he takes less to stay in St. Louis this time around with the Yankees, Rangers and Red Sox possibilities to come sniffing around. Two of his former teams, the Royals and Mets, could also make plays for him. Although his defense has gone downhill, he's worth $40 million for two years in this market.

2013 stats: .296/.339/.491, 24 HR, 79 R, 84 RBI, 2 SB in 554 AB

10. Hiroki Kuroda (RHP Yankees - Age 39): This is Kuroda's third straight year as a free agent after he left money on the table to sign with the Yankees the previous two offseasons. He hasn't lost anything on the mound, having finished with the same ERA and WHIP last season as he did in 2012, and he should be able to command the highest one-year salary of any pitcher in this year's free agent crop if he wants to shop himself around. However, he'll probably choose between those same two options he did last year: staying with the Yankees or returning to Japan.

2013 stats: 11-13, 3.31 ERA, 150/43 K/BB in 201 1/3 IP

11. A.J. Burnett (RHP Pirates - Age 37): With a 3.41 ERA and 389 strikeouts the last two seasons, there's no doubt that Burnett has earned himself a healthy two-year contract this winter. The question is whether he wants one. He's openly discussed retirement, and it doesn't seem to be any sort of negotiating ploy. If he does come back, it'll probably be on a one-year deal with the Pirates. But if he were to play the market, he certainly shouldn't have to settle for anything less than the $35 million for two years that Tim Lincecum just got from the Giants.

2013 stats: 10-11, 3.30 ERA, 209/67 K/BB in 191 IP

12. Nelson Cruz (OF Rangers - Age 33): The 50-game steroids suspension may take a year or two off Cruz's next contract, but it probably won't stop him from getting at least $15 million per year. He was in the midst of a very good season when the ban took effect, and he's managed to stay completely healthy two straight years after battling leg troubles earlier in his career. He's still not much of a right fielder, but a team can live with him out there. Something like three years and $45 million might fit.

2013 stats: .266/.327/.506, 27 HR, 49 R, 76 RBI, 5 SB in 413 AB

13. Mike Napoli (1B Red Sox - Age 32): Napoli's chronic hip condition cost him a three-year, $39 million deal last winter, but he ended up making $13 million under the terms of his incentive-laden one-year deal anyway. Now, he'll head back into free agency, and after making such a smooth transition to first -- metrics had him as the American League's best at the position this year -- he shouldn't have much trouble getting at least $39 million for three years again. If the Red Sox don't want to pay the price, a return to Texas would make a lot of sense. Seattle would be a fit if Kendrys Morales leaves, and the Pirates and Rockies might also want to consider opening their wallets.

2013 stats: .259/.360/.482, 23 HR, 79 R, 92 RBI, 1 SB in 498 AB

14. Tim Hudson (RHP Braves - Age 38): Hudson had a rough May last season, but he was pitching quite well in the two months up until he suffered a fractured ankle on a play at first base, ending his season. His strikeout rate (6.5 per 9 IP) rivaled his best mark in a decade. Hudson has taken less money to stay with the Braves before, and it sounds like there's mutual interest in a new deal, even though the Braves have an enticing starting five without him. If he were to test the open market, he'd probably get $15 million per season for one or two years.

2013 stats: 8-7, 3.97 ERA, 95/36 K/BB in 131 1/3 IP

15. Stephen Drew (SS Red Sox - Age 31): Drew took a one-year deal from the Red Sox last winter in the hopes of rebuilding his value, and it worked out well, despite an ugly playoff slump that has seen him go 6-for-54. His defensive reputation seems better than ever now, and he'll enter the winter as far and away the top shortstop on the market, which will drive his price tag up. Even though the Red Sox should be ready to turn shortstop over to Xander Bogaerts, they'll likely make Drew a qualifying offer, with the idea that they can play Bogaerts at third if he accepts. He probably won't. Since the Yankees, Cardinals and Mets all need shortstops and the Pirates, Mariners, Twins and Angels (if they trade Erick Aybar) could consider additions as well, a three- or four-year deal appears likely.

2013 stats: .253/.333/.443, 13 HR, 57 R, 67 RBI, 6 SB in 442 AB

16. Bronson Arroyo (RHP Reds - Age 37): Arroyo just keeps on spinning breaking ball after breaking ball up there with remarkable success. In four of the last five seasons, he's finished with ERAs between 3.74 and 3.88 and with a strikeout total in the 120s. He's also never been hurt; 2013 was his ninth straight season of at least 32 starts. The Reds will move on rather than pay the price to keep him, but he'll get at least $26 million for two years from some team needing a steady hand. The Angels are one of the more obvious fits.

2013 stats: 14-12, 3.79 ERA, 124/34 K/BB in 202 IP

17. Jarrod Saltalamacchia (C Red Sox - Age 28): A lousy throw and a bunch of strikeouts got Saltalamacchia benched in the World Series, but they shouldn't overshadow what was a very good season in which he collected 40 doubles and ranked sixth in OPS among catchers. The Red Sox have a tough call coming up on whether to make him a qualifying offer that could result in him earning $14.1 million next season. He should be able to get a three-year deal somewhere, perhaps even from Boston, but not quite at that kind of salary.

2013 stats: .273/.338/.466, 14 HR, 68 R, 65 RBI, 4 SB in 425 AB

18. Joe Nathan (RHP Rangers - Age 39): Even though his velocity isn't quite what it used to be, Nathan was as effective as ever last season, allowing just two homers in 64 2/3 innings and converting 43 of his 46 save chances. He's expected to decline his $9.5 million option for 2014 and seek another multiyear deal. Even at 39, he figures to get one. The Rangers will likely make an attempt to re-sign him, even though they have alternatives in the closer's role. It'll probably take about $24 million for two years.

2013 stats: 6-2, 43 Sv, 1.39 ERA, 73/22 K/BB in 64 2/3 IP

19. Bartolo Colon (RHP Athletics - Age 40): This one will be fascinating. Colon finished second in the AL in ERA last season, not to mention second in wins. He was also quite good in 2012 before he got slapped with a 50-game steroids ban. However, Colon is 40, he has a modest strikeout rate and he's benefitted from pitching in Oakland with a strong outfield defense behind him (though his home-road splits are essentially even the last two years). Tim Lincecum just got $17.5 million per year after being half of the pitcher Colon was the last two seasons (statistically and physically). In this market, wouldn't Colon be worth $20 million or more on a one-year deal? I'm not sure he'll end up getting more than half of that, though.

2013 stats: 18-6, 2.65 ERA, 117/29 K/BB in 190 1/3 IP

20. Ricky Nolasco (RHP Dodgers - Age 31): With his strikeout rate on the way back up, Nolasco had the second best season of his career in 2013. Even with the ugly fade at the end, he was particularly good for the Dodgers, going 8-3 with a 3.52 ERA and a 75/21 K/BB ratio in 87 innings after coming over from the Marlins. Since missing most of 2007, Nolasco has been very durable, averaging 31 starts per year. He's not really the kind of guy a contender would want for one of the top three spots in the rotation, but since the large-market teams could look at him as a No. 4 and the small-market teams could view him as an innings-eater for the top of the rotation, he should be quite popular.

2013 stats: 13-11, 3.70 ERA, 165/46 K/BB in 199 1/3 IP

21. Jason Vargas (LHP Angels - Age 31): A blood clot in his pitching arm knocked Vargas out for about seven weeks last season, but he was his usual self when he was on the mound. Put him in a big ballpark with a strong outfield defense, and he'll be a very solid middle-of-the-rotation option, and since he's not quite as much of a flyball pitcher as he used to be, he could still be of use in more neutral parks as well. He could get $30 million for three years, maybe a bit more.

2013 stats: 9-8, 4.02 ERA, 109/46 K/BB in 150 IP

22. Kendrys Morales (1B-DH Mariners - Age 30): Morales has put in three full seasons since reaching the majors at 23 in 2006, and he's finished with an .800 OPS in one of them. He's also mediocre defensively at first base and likely a bigger injury risk the more he plays there. Despite all that, the Mariners are expected to make him a $14.1 million qualifying offer, and he's probably going to turn it down in the hopes of a three-year deal in the $36 million range. He may well end up disappointed considering the lack of market for designated hitters.

2013 stats: .277/.336/.449, 23 HR, 64 R, 80 RBI, 0 SB in 602 AB

23. Brian Wilson (RHP Dodgers - Age 32): Even though his velocity wasn't all the way back, Wilson was quite the force in a setup role after completing his Tommy John rehab and signing with the Dodgers. In the postseason, he pitched six scoreless innings, striking out eight and allowing four hits. That success should ensure that he'll have his pick of closer gigs this winter, with at least a two-year, $20 million deal in the offing. The Tigers, Indians, Rangers, Angels and Mariners could be among his suitors. The Yankees would make sense, too, but their policy on facial hair could be quite the deterrent in this case.

2013 stats: 2-1, 3 Hd, 0.66 ERA, 13/4 K/BB in 13 2/3 innings

24. Dan Haren (RHP Nationals - Age 33): Haren salvaged his season following a midseason stint on the DL to rest an inflamed shoulder. After going 4-9 with a 6.15 ERA in 15 starts prior to the injury, he finished up 6-5 with a 3.29 ERA the rest of the way. The peripherals suggest that he's worthy of another one-year, $13 million deal, which is what he got from the Nationals last winter. Since his velocity is down and he's not the workhorse that he used to be, a multiyear deal would be dangerous.

2013 stats: 10-14, 4.67 ERA, 151/31 K/BB in 169 2/3 IP

25. Scott Kazmir (LHP Indians - Age 30): Left for dead after giving up five runs in 1 2/3 innings in his lone appearance for the Angels in 2011, Kazmir's comeback was one of the nice stories of last season. Inconsistent early on, he was at his best down the stretch, posting a 3.38 ERA and an 82/17 K/BB ratio in 72 innings after the break. In September, he had a 43/4 K/BB ratio and allowed just one homer in 28 innings. Health is a big question mark going forward, so it'd be awfully risky to sign him to a long-term deal. That finish, though, should land him a contract worth about $10 million per year.

2013 stats: 10-9, 4.04 ERA, 162/47 K/BB in 158 IP

26. Phil Hughes (RHP Yankees - Age 27): Once counted on to lead a wave of young pitching for the Yankees, Hughes and Joba Chamberlain will be departing with nary a whimper this winter. Hughes simply must find his way to a ballpark that's move forgiving towards his flyball tendencies; he's allowed 39 homers in 177 innings at Yankee Stadium the last two years, compared to 20 in 160 innings on the road. Given his youth and durability, he should have his pick of three-year offers to choose from, or he can gamble on a one-year deal with the hopes of getting a bigger payoff next winter. As long as his arm feels good, he should go the latter route.

2013 starts: 4-14, 5.19 ERA, 121/42 K/BB in 145 2/3 IP

27. Jhonny Peralta (SS Tigers - Age 31): Peralta has been all over the map offensively, but he had one of his best seasons in 2013 after turning in one of his worst in 2012 (.239/.305/.384 in 531 at-bats). How much a role steroids have played in the ups and downs of his career is something we'll never really know. Interestingly, his defensive numbers have been better his three years in Detroit than they were in Cleveland, suggesting that he'll be playable at shortstop for a couple of more years anyway. It wouldn't be a good idea to sign him for more than two years, but he'll probably get $9 million-$10 million per season.

2013 stats: .303/.358/.457, 11 HR, 50 R, 55 RBI, 3 SB in 409 AB

28. Grant Balfour (RHP Athletics - Age 36): Balfour doubled his career save total last season, but that's just saves; 2013 was his fourth straight campaign with an ERA in the mid-2.00s. After struggling to stay healthy throughout his 20s, he's pitched 55 innings six straight seasons since turning 30, topping 60 the last three years. He's still rather risky on a multiyear deal, but he's set to get the biggest contract of his career. $24 million for three years or $18 million for two could work.

2013 stats: 1-3, 38 Sv, 2.59 ERA, 72/27 K/BB in 62 2/3 IP

29. Scott Feldman (RHP Orioles - Age 31): Feldman took a one-year, $6 million deal from the Cubs last winter coming off a season in which he went 6-11 with a 5.09 ERA for Texas. He has a much better ERA this time around, though his peripherals are about the same, and should get a raise and a multiyear deal as a result.

2013 stats: 12-12, 3.86 ERA, 132/56 K/BB in 181 2/3 IP

30. Corey Hart (1B-OF Brewers - Age 32): Hart is just a year older than the new $90 million man, Pence, and he has a slightly better career OPS at .824 (a mark he's beaten each of his last three healthy seasons). Unfortunately, he's coming off surgery on both knees that cost him all of last season. He's aiming to be ready for Opening Day, but it's hardly a sure thing that he'll be 100 percent. Whether he'll be any sort of option in the outfield is unclear. Hart has said he'll take less to stay with the Brewers, and they definitely have need of him at first base. However, if he chooses to explore his options, he could find suitors in Boston (if Napoli leaves) and Colorado.

2013 stats: N/A

2012 stats: .270/.334/.507, 30 HR, 91 R, 83 RBI, 5 SB in 562 AB

31. Josh Johnson (RHP Blue Jays - Age 30): A healthy Johnson would have been the top pitcher on the board this winter, but he had a disastrous season while dealing with elbow woes. What gives some hope going forward is that his velocity was fine and his strikeout rate was actually outstanding in his 16 starts. Still, in eight big-league seasons, he's made 20 starts four times, 30 starts twice and pitched 200 innings just once. On something like a one-year, $10 million deal with incentives that could add $8 million, he'd be worth a try.

2013 stats: 2-8, 6.20 ERA, 83/30 K/BB in 81 1/3 IP

32. Paul Maholm (LHP Braves - Age 31): Maholm had a 3.54 ERA in his 11 starts with the Braves in 2012 and a 3.69 ERA through three months last season, but he started struggling in July, went down with a sprained wrist and then had a bit of an elbow problem at the end of the year. That's all bad news for his stock. Fortunately, nothing major turned up with the elbow. Maholm is still relatively young at 31, and he's made at least 26 starts in eight straight seasons. His signing won't be met with a lot of excitement, but he should land a substantial two- or three-year deal.

2013 stats: 10-11, 4.41 ERA, 105/47 K/BB in 153 IP

33. James Loney (1B Rays - Age 29): Loney provided tremendous value for the Rays after signing a $2 million contract as a free agent last winter, but he wasn't really standout after the first two months, settling in at .283/.328/.382 over the final four. He did play his usual fine defense around the bag, and if he can keep that OPS in the .750-.800 range, he's an asset. Unfortunately, it will probably cost $8 million-$10 million per year to sign him this time around. The Pirates could aim for him.

2013 stats: .299/.348/.430, 13 HR, 54 R, 75 RBI, 3 SB in 549 AB

34. Omar Infante (2B Tigers - Age 32): Underrated no longer, Infante is in line for the biggest contract of his career after batting .318 for the Tigers. While Infante is a 12-year veteran, he's just turning 32 in December, so he should be good for at least a couple of more years of regular play, followed by additional years as a utilityman. Besides Robinson Cano, Infante is the only second baseman available worthy of a multiyear deal. Someone will go to three years, possibly for $21 million or so.

2013 stats: .318/.345/.450, 10 HR, 54 R, 51 RBI, 5 SB in 453 AB

35. Joaquin Benoit (RHP Tigers - Age 36): Thrust into the closer's role, Benoit converted his first 22 save chances last season before blowing two during the final week of the season. He also took one huge blown save in the postseason when he gave up David Ortiz's grand slam in Game 2 of the ALCS. It was just the sixth homer he allowed in 2013 after he gave up 15 between the regular season and postseason in 2012. Benoit will probably be viewed more as an elite setup man than as a closer this winter. Still, after four strong years in a row, he shouldn't have any trouble landing at least a two-year deal.

2013 stats: 4-1, 24 Sv, 2.01 ERA, 73/22 K/BB in 67 IP

36. Fernando Rodney (RHP Rays - Age 37): Obviously, Rodney's 2013 stats don't compare to the 2012 season that saw him set a major league ERA record (0.60 in 74 2/3 IP) and go 48-for-50 saving games. However, his stuff was as good as ever at age 36; he often hit 98-99 mph on the gun and he finished with a career-best strikeout rate. He'll almost surely move on from the Rays and take over as a different team's closer next year. Given his inconsistency, he might have a tougher time getting a multiyear deal than Nathan and Balfour.

2013 stats: 5-4, 37 Sv, 3.38 ERA, 82/36 K/BB in 66 2/3 IP

37. Marlon Byrd (OF Mets - Age 36): Byrd's numbers may have been dismissed a bit had he finished the season with the Mets, but after a strong showing down the stretch with the Pirates and then some postseason heroics (.364 in six games, big homer in the wild card victory), he's in much better position to get a two-year contract. Right-handed power just isn't easy to come by. In fact, among right-handed hitters, Byrd led all free agents-to-be with his 24 homers.

2013 stats: .291/.336/.511, 24 HR, 75 R, 88 RBI, 2 SB in 532 AB

38. Carlos Ruiz (C Phillies - Age 35): Ruiz sat out the start of the season serving a 25-game amphetamines suspension and then missed a month with a strained hamstring. He never found his stroke offensively until August, when he hit four of his five homers for the season. At age 35, there's little reason to expect him to have more seasons like his 2010 and 2012 campaigns. He also shouldn't be penciled in to catch much more than 100 games. Still, he'll probably be a bit above average when he's in there. Since the Phillies' catching prospects have failed to develop, they'll look to bring Ruiz back.

2013 stats: .268/.320/.368, 5 HR, 30 R, 37 RBI, 1 SB in 310 AB

39. Chris Young (OF Athletics - Age 30): After six years as an everyday center fielder, Young didn't take to the limited role he had in Oakland, hitting just .200. He's always been rather unappreciated anyway, because of his modest averages (career high of .257) and underrated defense. It didn't help that his 32-homer season as a rookie led to high expectations. Freed of those now, Young should be a solid enough regular for whichever team that snares him. He's probably looking at a one-year deal and a chance to go back out on the market.

2013 stats: .200/.280/.379, 12 HR, 46 R, 40 RBI, 10 SB in 335 AB

40. Suk-Min Yoon (RHP Korea - Age 27): Yoon hopes to capitalize on fellow Korean Hyun-Jin Ryu's success in jumping to MLB, but after a down season, he's not likely to be valued quite so highly. On the plus side, Yoon is a free agent, so there's no posting required. Yoon had his best years in 2008 and 2011, when he was the KBO MVP after going 17-5 with a 2.45 ERA and a 178/44 K/BB ratio in 172 1/3 IP. He should be able to contribute as a reliever if he doesn't cut it as a starter. The guess here is that he signs for about $18 million for three years, but it only takes one team to go overboard.

2013 stats: 3-6, 4.00 ERA, 76/28 K/BB in 87 2/3 IP

*. Yoshio Itoi (OF Japan - Age 32): There's been less of it lately, but speculation was that Itoi would be posted this winter. That he wanted to jump to MLB is one of the reasons the Nippon Ham Fighters traded him to the Orix Blue Wave last winter. Itoi, a left-handed bat, has been very consistent hitting between .300-.320 and posting OPSs between .813 and .901 in his all five of his full seasons in Japan. He has the skills to be a leadoff hitter in the majors, though there's some question about whether he'll be able to stay in center field.

2013 stats: .300/.384/.468, 17 HR, 75 R, 61 RBI, 33 SB in 524 AB

41. Roy Halladay (RHP Phillies - Age 36): Halladay finished 2013 without his usual velocity or movement, but he also claimed he wasn't hurt. At this point, he seems highly unlikely to regain his old stuff, and while he might be able to survive with a lesser arsenal, it's going to be hard for him to thrive. So, what to wager? He should have to settle for an incentive-laden contract, but someone might guarantee him $10 million or more based on his history and his work ethic.

2013 stats: 4-5, 6.82 ERA, 51/36 K/BB in 62 IP

42. Joe Smith (RHP Indians - Age 30): Smith's next contract will surprise a lot of people, but this is a rock-solid reliever. His career ERA is 2.97, and he's come under that each of the last three years, even though he's been allowed to face more left-handed hitters (he was more of a righty specialist in his first few years). Plus, he's only 30 and he has no history of arm injuries. He seems like a shoo-in for a three-year deal, though whether it's for $15 million or something closer to $20 million will depend on the bidders.

2013 stats: 6-2, 25 Hd, 2.29 ERA, 54/23 K/BB in 63 IP

43. Derek Jeter (SS Yankees - Age 39): The Jeter situation would be a whole lot more interesting if he didn't possess a $9.5 million player option. He wants to keep playing, so he wouldn't seem to have any choice but to exercise it. Another team would be crazy to pay him that kind of coin to play shortstop, and he doesn't appear to have any interest in a position switch.

2013 stats: .190/.288/.254, 1 HR, 8 R, 7 RBI, 0 SB in 63 AB

44. Scott Baker (RHP Cubs - Age 32): It looked like Baker, who originally hoped to come back from Tommy John surgery in May, might miss the full season, but he returned for three starts in September and pitched well in two of them. Unfortunately, his velocity was well down, resulting in fewer strikeouts than usual. But just the fact that he did get back on the mound makes him quite a bit more attractive in free agency. If he returns at full strength next year, he's a $15 million pitcher. However, because of the question marks, he may not go for more than half of that.

2013 stats: 0-0, 3.60 ERA, 6/4 K/BB in 15 IP

45. A.J. Pierzynski (C Rangers - Age 37): Always consistent offensively, Pierzynski pulled a new trick out of the bag at age 36, throwing out his highest percentage of would-be basestealers ever (24-of-73, 33 percent). He's been incredibly durable as well, playing in 128 games in a dozen straight seasons. He's going to have to decline one of these years, but a team needing a catcher could do quite a bit worse for its $7 million-$8 million.

2013 stats: .272/.297/.425, 17 HR, 48 R, 70 RBI, 1 SB in 503 AB

46. Randy Messenger (RHP Japan - Age 32): A journeyman major leaguer from 2005-09, Messenger became one of the best pitchers in Japan in 2011 and turned in his third straight sub-3.00 ERA last season. He also struck out 25 more batters than anyone else in the Central League. The belief is that he'd prefer to return to MLB now, but he's already received a strong offer to stay with Hanshin. To lure him away, some team may need to commit to a three-year deal in the hopes that he's the new Colby Lewis or Ryan Vogelsong.

2013 stats: 12-8, 2.89 ERA, 183/56 K/BB in 196 1/3 IP

47. Jesse Crain (RHP Rays - Age 32): For nearly three months last season, Crain was the AL's best reliever, amassing a 0.53 ERA and 18 holds in his first 35 appearances while setting up for Addison Reed. Shoulder problems did him in after that, and while it seemed his return was always right around the corner -- the Rays even traded for him in the hopes that he'd contribute down the stretch -- he never did make it back. He was probably on track for a $20 million-plus contract before the injury. He still might get a multiyear deal if some team seems like gambling.

2013 stats: 2-3, 19 Hd, 0.74 ERA, 46/11 K/BB in 36 2/3 IP

48. Wandy Rodriguez (LHP Pirates - Age 35): When Rodriguez was traded from Houston to Pittsburgh in 2012, it turned his $13 million for 2014 from a club option into a player option. With a healthy 2013 season, he probably would have declined it. However, since he missed the final two-thirds of the season with forearm and elbow soreness, it's pretty much a no-brainer for him to exercise the option and stay with the Pirates.

2013 stats: 6-4, 3.59 ERA, 46/12 K/BB in 62 2/3 IP

49. David Murphy (OF Rangers - Age 32): After five pretty terrific seasons as the game's busiest fourth outfielder, Murphy was finally penciled in as a starter last season and stunk it up, losing 200 points off his 2012 OPS of .859. It was pretty much all BABIP, though: his strikeout rate was a career low and he showed about as much power as usual. He just didn't hit singles. A rebound seems very likely, and Murphy should be able to get a multiyear deal, maybe something in the range of $12 million for two years.

2013 stats: .220/.282/.374, 13 HR, 51 R, 45 RBI, 1 SB in 436 AB

50. Edward Mujica (RHP Cardinals - Age 29): This will be one of the tougher calls of the winter. Mujica's breakthrough year had him lined up for a big payday, probably something in the neighborhood of $24 million-$30 million for three years. Unfortunately, his shoulder started bothering him in September; he tried to pitch through it but his ERA jumped from 1.73 to 2.78 and the Cardinals replaced him in the closer's role. In the postseason, he made just two appearances, none in the World Series. Mujica had always been durable previously, and there's nothing to suggest that there's anything seriously wrong with his shoulder. Still, given that he was more solid than spectacular prior to last season, $20 million would seem to be a reach now.

2013 stats: 2-1, 37 Sv, 2.78 ERA, 46/5 K/BB in 64 2/3 IP

51. Kevin Youkilis (1B-3B Yankees - Age 35): Back problems ruined what was likely Youkilis' lone season in New York. Trending downwards since 2010, he's definitely in line for a pay cut from the $12 million he made the last three seasons, and one wonders if he's still a realistic option at third base going forward.

2013 stats: .219/.305/.343, 2 HR, 12 R, 8 RBI, 0 SB in 105 AB

52. Chris Perez (RHP Indians - Age 28): Figuring he'd be impossible to trade with an $8 million-$10 million arbitration award coming his way, the Indians simply released Perez on Thursday. It probably would have happened even if not for his dreadful September that took his ERA from 3.22 to 4.33, though maybe then they would have had some chance of trading him. Perez's performance hasn't actually taken much of a dive; he was simply never that good in the first place. He'll probably be an adequate closer for some team next year.

2013 stats: 5-3, 25 Sv, 4.33 ERA, 54/21 K/BB in 54 IP

53. Michael Morse (OF Orioles - Age 31): Morse followed up a big spring with six homers in his first nine games for the Mariners. He then hit just seven more all year, with four coming after he hurt his wrist in May. Surgery to shave down a bone in his wrist followed in October. That there are only so many right-handed hitters with 25- or 30-homer power will work in Morse's favor this winter. He's not a big OBP guy and he's a liability on defense, but he'll have bidders.

2013 stats: .215/.270/.381, 13 HR, 34 R, 27 RBI, 0 SB in 312 AB

54. Justin Morneau (1B Pirates - Age 32): The Pirates took a chance that Morneau's August surge was a sign of better things to come, but hit .260/.370/.312 with no homers and three RBI in 25 games for his new team. The playoffs were more of the same: he went 7-for-24 with just a double and no runs batted in. It's not that Morneau is a liability as a starting first baseman, but neither has been an above average regular at any point since suffering battling post-concussion syndrome in 2011. A one-year, $5 million seems suitable, though his name will probably get him a bit more.

2013 stats: .259/.323/.411, 17 HR, 62 R, 77 RBI, 0 SB in 572 AB

55. Javier Lopez (LHP Giants - Age 36): Last time Lopez was a free agent, a barren market for left-handed relievers resulted in him getting a two-year, $8.5 million deal to stay with the Giants. This time around, he could again be considered the best of the bunch, but he has a lot more competition in the form of J.P. Howell, Boone Logan, Manny Parra, Scott Downs and the rehabbing Eric O'Flaherty. The Giants are expected to attempt to retain him.